Prominent climate activist Sonam Wangchuk on Saturday expressed hope that the Union Territory of Ladakh would move forward with unity, dialogue and positive change to address the concerns of its people.
Addressing a large gathering in Leh that accorded him a rousing reception following the revocation of his detention under the National Security Act (NSA), Wangchuk said Ladakh had faced setbacks but expressed optimism that change had already begun.
He said people now expect progress and a new direction. He also hoped that circumstances would not necessitate further protests, though he added that such decisions would depend on the situation if the need arises.
Wangchuk emphasised that he harbours no bitterness over past events and prefers to focus on positive transformation and collective progress.
Wangchuk, who had been lodged in Jodhpur Central Jail since September 26, 2025, was released after the union government revoked his detention last week. He arrived in Leh accompanied by his wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo.
Expressing optimism after his return, Wangchuk said, "I am feeling very good. After 170 days, coming back to these mountains and meeting people, I hope a new sun will rise for the cause for which we are working." He also thanked people across the country for supporting the movement.
He further said the Centre had extended an "open hand" to initiate a meaningful engagement process with stakeholders in Ladakh. Emphasising a collaborative approach, he called for a "win-win" solution rather than a confrontational "win-lose" outcome.
"This is what we have wanted. We had to struggle, walk to Delhi and sit on a hunger strike. All movements in Ladakh are aimed at initiating dialogue," he said.
NSA detention revoked
As reported earlier, the Ministry of Home Affairs on March 14 revoked Wangchuk's detention under the National Security Act. The decision came shortly after Vinai Kumar Saxena took oath as the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh.
Wangchuk had been detained on September 26, 2025, following violence in Leh town two days earlier. He was held under provisions of the NSA as per an order issued by the District Magistrate, Leh, to maintain public order, and had served nearly half of his detention period.
Next course of action
Wangchuk said he would hold consultations with the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance to decide the future course of the agitation.
Both groups have been engaged in talks with the Ministry of Home Affairs over key demands, including statehood and Sixth Schedule status—issues that have remained unresolved since Ladakh was carved out as a separate Union Territory after the reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019.
